The Ultimate Guide to Electrical Safety

Electricity, albeit an invisible force, is one of the most important elements underpinning our modern lifestyles. Without it, we wouldn’t be able to power up our computers, ride on the train, or watch a DVD. While obtaining professional electrical services is advised if you have any doubts, these tips for safety are a good starting point to ensuring electrical safety anywhere – at home or in the outdoors.

1. General Safety Around the House

Indoors

Hundreds of Australians have been hurt or injured because of unsafe electrical hazards around the house. A little bit of electrical maintenance can make a big difference. If we do take the time to look, how many of us can tell the difference between a worn and a well-maintained wire? A licensed electrician can assist with identifying faulty wires and potential hazards.

Appliances. Keep appliances clean will prevent build-up and accumulation of food scraps. These can adversely affect the function of appliances.

Power and extension cords. Use extension cords with care by not closing doors or sitting heavy furniture items over them. This can cause damage. Make sure all power cords are fully unwound to avoid overheating.

Overloading power points. Avoid overloading power points with piggy-back extenders. Use power boards or install extra power points as required.

Lightening. Avoid potential injury from lightening with surge protectors. You may also disconnect modems and power leads, and avoid making calls during a lightening storm.

After the storm. After a storm, move around carefully and stay aware of loose branches or debris overhead.

Avoid using the landline during electrical storms as accidents have resulted from this in the past.

3. Safety Tips for Businesses

In most states and territories, business owners have a duty to make sure electrical equipment and installations are safe and secure for use. Some of the things businesses owners must do to ensure safety may include:

Regular testing and inspection of equipment and cords;

Retiring malfunctioning equipment;

Use power boards with safety switches and overload protection settings; or